The data analysis section of your research manuscript is due by Day 7. In this section, you will include the results of any statistical procedures used with your data to detail the outcomes of your research. Outline the statistical analyses used, the results, and provide a discussion of the results. Refer back to what you learned in biostatistics about analyzing data and reporting the results. Examine how articles used in your literature review reported the outcomes of their data analysis. These resources can assist you as you work through this section. If you have any questions, contact your Instructor. This section of the manuscript should support your research question—the purpose of your research study.
Submit your data analysis by Day 7 via the Submission link for grading and to receive feedback from the Instructor. Include appropriate tables, graphs, or charts and a write-up of the data analysis procedures and findings.
For this assignment, please describe your data analysis in approximately 3 pages:
•Briefly address the data analysis process.
•Identify and justify the univariate, bivariate and/or multivariate statistical techniques that were used to describe and analyze your quantitative data.
The subject should be childhood obesity. I have to submit it via turnitin and it has to be less than 4% score. (No plagiarism)
SAMPLE ANSWER
Research Manuscript: Data Analysis
The alarming rise in the cases of childhood obesity in many nations in the world has lead to the increased studies associated with this problem. A survey of 5200 grade 5 students was conducted to determine the causes of childhood obesity. In the study, weight and height of the children were measured. Information about their dietary intake and physical and sedentary activities were also collected. The statistical procedures used in the study included the analysis of nutrition programs using multi-level regression levels, which also accounted for other demographic characteristics such as socioeconomic status, gender characteristics, and their residential neighborhoods (Veugelers & Fitzgerald, 2005).
The results of the study showed that the students in schools that participated in a coordinated program that incorporated school-based healthy eating programs exhibited lower rates of obesity and overweight children. The results also showed that students who had healthier diets and practiced more physical activities also exhibited a lower degree of being overweight and obese as compared to students who had no physical activities or nutrition programs.
The aim of the study was to evaluate the effects of school education programs in the reduction and prevention of excess body weight that leads to obesity. The effectiveness of the reduction and prevention of obesity is mainly based on improving the quality of diets and the overall daily physical activity. The survey methods used to select the participants involved the use of purposive sampling that included elementary students who attended public school. The study dubbed the Children’s Lifestyle, and School Performance Study of 2003 included the school principals, parents, and elementary school fifth graders. In the study, more than two hundred and ninety schools were selected that had a fifth grade class. Out of these, only two hundred and eighty accepted to conduct the study, which consisted of filling a survey questionnaire and filling a consent form to parents of these fifth graders.
Of all the consent forms that were distributed, only five thousand five hundred were positive responses, with an average response rate of close to fifty percent. Many reasons resulted in the reduction of this response rate since some students lost their consent forms while some parents were extremely adamant in allowing their children to participate in a mass survey. The questionnaire presented was similar to that of the Harvard youth adolescent food frequency questionnaire, which had additional questions regarding the use of their free time in performing physical and sedentary activities. The data collection activity also involved the measurement of their heights, weights, and collection of their demographic characteristics such as their gender, age, social status, and residential neighborhood information.
Statistical methods used in the study involved multilevel regression methods to examine the effects of school programs in relation to fruit and vegetable consumption, obesity, dietary quality, fat intake, overweight outcomes, and physical and sedentary activities. The school program was considered a second level covariate and a contextual factor. The condition of being overweight, obese, and physical and sedentary activities were treated as first level binary outcomes in the multilevel logistic regression analysis. The data was used to calculate odd ratios with more than ninety-five percent confidence levels.
The results of the survey led to the conclusion that school-based nutritional and physical activity programs provide a basis for the provision of future well-being and health of the children, by enhancing learning and instilling good nutritional and exercise habits in them. This was found to be effective in enhancing their quality of health during growth and reducing chronic illnesses at adulthood
Organizational stress seems to be an inevitable consequence of doing business in today’s fast-paced global society. But what are the causes of organizational stress?
What is the impact of these stressors on an organization? How can these sources of stress be effectively mitigated and managed? Critically reviewing the body of research on these questions may yield valuable insight that will allow you to enable organizations of which you are a part to better manage stress.
To prepare:
•Select three peer-reviewed scholarly articles, with each article addressing a different source of organizational stress. In your evaluation of each article, consider the following:
Reliability (evaluation of research methods used, theories used, and data on which it is based)
Appropriateness for the intended audience
Background and authority of the author
Limitations of the research (which can depend on the scope, reliability, age of the document, and bias)
Significance of the research
For more information and an example of an annotated bibliography, refer to the Walden University Online Writing Center’s annotated bibliography resource in this Module’s Learning Resources.
By Day 7 of Week 5, submit an annotated bibliography for the three resources. For each article, be sure to include the following:
•A full APA-style bibliographic reference including the author, title, publisher, and place of publication
•A summary of the document including the main points, its purpose, the theoretical perspective on which it is based, and the scope
•Evaluation of the source following the guidelines outlined under “To prepare”
SAMPLE ANSWER
Organizational Stressors: Annotated Bibliography
Marija Rok. (2011). Stress and stress management in a higher education tourism institution, Tourism and Hospitality Management, Vol. 17, No. 2, pp. 279-290.
The article aimed at finding out the nature of stress found in institutions of higher learning, and how they affect the employees as well as methods used to handle them. The author conducted a case study in one tertiary institution and targeted employees of one faculty, i.e. the tourism department. The study followed a phenomenon approach focused on participants’ subjective experiences. Employees were subjected to a semi-structured interview with open-ended questions. Data was analyzed using a general analytical strategy where the author compared the findings of the study to other similar studies done both in that country and worldwide. The results indicated that employees in higher education institutions face stress similar to those in an enterprise.
The author did not base his study on any specific theory but instead, compared his data to other studies done previously. This was intentional as he wanted to get an unbiased result, which could be used or applied in any other higher education setting.
Typical answers given by participants on what they found stressful include dissertation work, diverse curricula, research obligations, lack of job safety, ambiguous roles, non-transparent leading, lack of opportunity for empowerment, organization climate, family obligations, and lack of time. Surprisingly, these issues were similar to those of employees found in corporates as well as previous studies done in tertiary institutions elsewhere.
Effects of these stress factors included tiredness, frustrations, irritability, aggression, and loss of interest among others. The participants understood how to relieve stress and engaged in activities like regular exercise, proper nutrition, regular sleep, engaged in hobbies, social gatherings, positive thinking, laughter, and relaxation. The organization, on the other hand, did nothing except hold meetings.
The case study method used was appropriate as it gave an opportunity for thorough investigation and a small sample size; hence, comprehensive results were gotten. The analysis the author draws from this study is that most of the stressors found in this institution were extrinsic i.e. based on bad tourism industry performance. His conclusion that stress is an unavoidable factor is true but it is rather a shallow recommendation, and he should have offered solid solutions instead of living the research hanging.
Lineta Ramonienė and Olena Gorbatenko. (2013). Managing Occupational Stress In Human Service Nonprofit Organizations In Mykolaiv, Ukraine. Organizations & Markets In Emerging Economies, VOL. 4, No. 2(8)
These authors sort to identify stressors in nonprofit organizations in a town in Ukraine using the transactional theory model that views stress as caused by relationship of a person and work. The study was conducted on the entire population of the non-profits of the town i.e. eleven institutions and six hypotheses were formulated using fourteen stressors. Using the regression model for analysis, the findings revealed that three stress factors were dominant i.e. demands exceeding abilities, demands falling short of abilities, and clients’ needs for emotional support.
The study shows that too many stress factors were chosen and out of original fourteen chosen, only eleven were applicable. Out of those, only six had positive results. Out of the six, only two revealed strong indicators to stress. Two stress factors had mild relation to stress and the other three had a weak link to stress. The three stress factors that failed to be used were career development opportunities, job insecurity, and dysfunctional relationships with supervisor. These are normally the main factors that contribute to stress among employees. However, it could be that this does not apply in the NGO sector as staffs here aim to “serve” and not “benefit” from the work. In addition, the lack of use of qualitative methods like interview that would have explained certain responses was an oversight. Lastly, even though the goal was accomplished i.e. to find out the stress factors that are found in NGO’s, the study left more questions than answers.
Caitlin Finney, Erene Stergiopoulos, Jennifer Hensel, Sarah Bonato and Carolyn S Dewa. (2013). Organizational stressors associated with job stress and burnout in correctional officers: a systematic review. BMC Public Health, 13:82
The authors reviewed the relationship between organizational stressors and employee stress and burnout in adult correctional facilities. The authors conducted a literature review and used Cooper & Marshall’s model of job stress to choose which stressors to use. The findings indicated that organizational structure and climate was the main cause of stress and burnout for employees.
The aim of the study was to identify areas that organizational interventions could target to reduce employee stress and burnout. The study was done using eight articles chosen from credible databases and journals, and five stressors including role in the organization, rewards at work, supervisory relationships at work, and the organizational structure and climate were applied. Negative consequences of burnout included high turnover rates, high absenteeism, and low productivity. Limitations of the study were many, especially that the articles selected used varying measures for organizational stressors. Moreover, the fact that this study used a cross sectional design as opposed to longtitudal design, which is more appropriate for behavior related researches is another weakness. In addition, the articles chosen were mostly from one country and involved public correctional institutions.
The authors in their conclusion recommended increase in communication between management and employees, while mild and more radical solutions might be necessary, especially when giving staff more decision-making power and reviewing job descriptions.
References
Caitlin Finney, Erene Stergiopoulos, Jennifer Hensel, Sarah Bonato and Carolyn S Dewa. (2013). Organizational stressors associated with job stress and burnout in correctional officers: a systematic review. BMC Public Health, 13:82
Marija Rok. (2011). Stress and stress management in a higher education tourism institution, Tourism and Hospitality Management, Vol. 17, No. 2, pp. 279-290.
We can write this or a similar paper for you! Simply fill the order form!
In ‘Godefa One Man’s Story’ you are introduced to many of the issues facing people who have been forced to leave their country because they are at risk of, or have experienced, persecution. Godefa believes that nurses have a critical role in supporting refugees who are resettled in Australia.
Critically discuss the key components of the Ottawa Charter for Health Promotion in relation to the mental health of refugees and what impact you as a nurse can have on improving the mental health and well-being of refugees and their families.
Unit Learning Outcomes assessed:
ULO1: Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of a range of contemporary mental health issues -in particular by exploring mental health issues related to refugees
ULO2: Evaluate social, political, environmental, and economic factors in relation to mental health – by considering the factors that contribute to poor mental health in this population group
ULO3: Relate primary health care philosophy, principles, and strategies to promote mental health – by considering refugee health in the context of the Ottawa Charter
Graduate Learning Outcomes assessed:
GLO1: Discipline Specific Knowledge and Capabilities – by apply mental health theory to nursing practice and considering the role of nurses in supporting and improving the mental health of refugees
GLO2: Communication – by demonstrating the ability to communicate ideas and knowledge through writing
GLO4: Critical Thinking – through evaluation of information and critique of key ideas from the literature and mental health promotion theory as it applies to refugees
GLO6: Self-management – by demonstrating the capacity to work independently to research, prepare and submit this assignment by the due date
GLO8: Global citizenship – by engaging with ideas about refugee populations, a global health issue, and role of nurses in improving the mental health of refugees.
SUMMARY:
Key aspect of the topics:
*Refugee mental health – and the impact of social and political context
*Ottawa Charter – As a framework for promoting mental health of refugee
*Impact nurses can have on improving mental health of refugees.
PS: Settings of mental health promotion in Australia
It needs Harvard referencing and Australian context.
SAMPLE ANSWER
Mental Health Promotion in Australia
In ‘Godefa One Man’s Story’, there is an introduction to a majority of the issues faced by people who are forced to desert their country since they are vulnerable to or have undergone through persecution. Godefa supports the idea that nurses possess a critical obligation in supporting refugees that have resettled in Australia. The pre-arrival experiences that refugees in Australia experience have key implications on their long-term mental and physical health. The refugees flee from persecution in their mother countries. They may have been subjected to torture and suffered trauma due to conflict and war. Usually, the time the refugees have been in flight as well as in the countries of 1st asylum often equate to prolonged insecurity and displacement, which frequently requires the refugees to spend many years moving in refugee camps or between places with no or limited access to healthcare and proper nutrition. As a result, there are unresolved health challenges that only aggravate the mental well-being. After arrival in Australia, the process for resettlement is often extremely stressfully with crucial negative compounding impacts. This has a great consequence on the refugees’ mental wellbeing and health status.
Mental health issues related to refugees
A majority of the newly arrived refugees Australia in have no friendship and family networks. Moreover, they experience isolation in the new communities. This brings about negative mental health impacts and exacerbates the pre-existing mental health concerns (Fazel, 2012; p266). The damaging effect of prolonged separation from their families on the mental health is a great issue of concern. Often, the mental health issues that are associated with refugees never manifest immediately. On the contrary, they become apparent later after the initial settlement. This implies that former refugees may require mental health services in addition to trauma and torture counseling well after the eligibility for such services (Schweitzer et al, 2011; p299-300). The difficulties and limitations the refugee entrants face when accessing mental health assistance is the same as those experienced in the general health services.
A majority of the refugees in Australia are on the bridging visas while waiting for the protection applications to be processed. Only a few have been under detention. This group also suffers vital social stressors including unemployment, poverty, isolation from the family, social dislocation, and the anxieties of a new life in strange communities where there are considerable cultural and language differences (Watkins, 2012; p126-128). This is compounded by the fact that the refuges have had a history of witnessing or experiencing severe trauma, persecution, and torture. This makes refugees very vulnerable to suffering from mental health challenges.
The protracted refugee determination procedure is usually very distressing and difficult for the refugees. Evidence indicated that this procedure greatly contributes to post-traumatic stress disorder directly. This is particularly for people who had their claims rejected repeatedly. Usually, refugees present with major depression, generalized anxiety disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and adjustment disorders. There are also features of irritability, fluctuating mood, poor attention and concentration, overwhelming powerlessness and hopelessness feelings, and recurrent intensive thoughts regarding the determination process (Kirmayer et al, 2011; p959). Some refugees develop psychotic and dissociative symptoms. Some refugees may become too obsessed with refugee application process and not be able to focus on anything else outside this process.
Social, political, economic, and environmental factors that contribute to poor mental health among refugees
An individual’s capacity to flourish and develop is influenced deeply by the immediate social surroundings. This also includes the opportunity to positively engage with colleagues, friends, and family members, as well as earn a life for the families and themselves. The socio-economic circumstances the refugees find themselves in have a great role. Lost or restricted opportunities to acquire income or education are particularly pertinent socio-economic factors. A majority of the refugees undergo through a discrepancy between the social status before and after migration. This mostly leads to poverty. Many of them have also lost a lot of assets when forced to fled from the host country. Many also lose significant documents certifying their credentials, training, and education. This is a huge barrier for employment. Racism and discrimination from the prospective employers is a very common barrier to employment.
Foreign-trained professionals often have challenges having their skills accredited. They have to undergo through costly recertification and time-consuming processes. The challenges involved in learning the new language create barriers to employment. There may also be limited quality and accessibility to ESL programs (English as a second language. As a result of this, sustained unemployment and underemployment periods are common among the refugees. There is usually a tendency for the refugees to blame themselves when they cannot acquire a job that matches what they had in their country of origin. Often this leads to feelings of humiliation, helplessness, inferiority, despair, anger, and nostalgia that negatively impacts on their mental health.
The political system in Australia does not have solid strategies for preventing refugees’ isolation and offering social support. Many of the refugees separate from their family and friends during the migration process. They also experience the absence of similar ethno-cultural communities as was in the host country. Considering that there are inadequate language skills, forming friendships becomes difficult. Racism and unfriendly reception from Australians can create barriers that hinder support networks. The seniors and women have a heightened isolation risk since they are most likely unemployed and have to spend more time at home compared to men (work) and children (school). These factors are great contributors to the refugees’ mental health problems.
The wider geopolitical and socio-cultural environment in which the refugees find themselves in Australia affects the community’s, household’s, and individual’s mental health status. This also includes the level of access to the basic services and commodities (rule of law, essential health services, and water); practices and attitudes; and exposure to the predominating cultural beliefs. There is also a challenge of economic and social policies that are created at the national level. For instance, the global financial crisis has crucial mental health impacts such as increasing harmful alcohol use and suicide rates. Gender or social conflict or inequity and discrimination are some of the adverse structural mental well-being determinants.
It is worth noting that these factors interact with each other in dynamic ways. Therefore, they can either be against or for the refugees’ mental health state. Addressing the issues that refugees face in Australia should, therefore, involve identifying and addressing the multifaceted factors.
Primary healthcare strategies, principles, and philosophy of the Ottawa Charter for Health promotion in relation to refugees’ mental health
The Ottawa Charter for Health Promotion encompasses of five principal health promotion strategies; creating supportive environments; building healthy public policy; strengthening community action; developing personal skills; and reorienting services towards prevention, promotion, and early intervention (Potvin and Jones, 2011 244-245). Promoting mental health encompasses of enhancing the capacity of the communities and individuals so that they can have control in their lives as well as better their mental health. When promoting mental health, there is use of strategies that promote supportive environments as well as individual resilience. This is usually accomplished while demonstrating respect for equity, culture, interconnections, social justice, and personal dignity.
Mental health promotion and the Ottawa Charter for Health Promotion share common elements. There is a keen focus on enhancing the refugees’ well-being as opposed to illness. Second, the population is addressed as a whole, with an inclusion of people that are experiencing risk conditions in their everyday life context (Correa-Velez et al, 2010; p1403). Another commonality is that both are oriented towards acting on the health determinants including housing and income. There is also a focus on broadening the focus so that there is inclusion of protective factors as opposed to simply focusing on the risk conditions and factors. The two approaches also encompass of a wide array of strategies including education, communication, organizational change, policy development, local activities, and community development. The population’s competencies are also reinforced and acknowledged. Finally, the social and health fields in addition to medical services are encompassed. This is usually founded on the fact that the social arena has a great contribution to the health status of refugees in Australia (Vasey and Manderson, 2012; p50). In this regard, promoting the health status of the refugees should encompass addressing the social factors that influence the health.
The Ottawa Charter on Health Promotion advocates for strengthening community action. This process has at its heart communities’ empowerment, their control and ownership of their personal destinies and endeavors. Community development focuses on the existing material and human resources in a community with the intention of enhancing social and self-help support, as well as developing flexible systems that can promote health matters’ direction and public participation. If mental health has to be promoted among the refugees in Australia, it is important to have this responsibility shared among community groups, individuals, governments, health service institutions, and health professionals. All relevant stakeholders have to work together towards a healthcare system that addresses all the needs of refugees. The reorientation of health services should also be accompanied by a stronger attention to research and changes in professional training and education. This should lead to attitude change as well as a transformation in health services’ organization, that concentrates on the complete needs of refugees as whole persons.
The charter emphasizes that the principal resources and conditions for health are equity, social justice, sustainable resources, a stable ecosystem, income, food, education, shelter, and peace. Therefore, improving the mental health of refugees should have a secure foundation in the mentioned basic prerequisites. Three major components for health promotion are advocate, enable, and mediate. More significantly, health promotion should go past health care. Policy-makers from all sectors as well as all levels should be included. They should be aware of the impacts their decisions have and acknowledge the huge role they have in promoting health.
Role of nurses in improving and supporting refugees’ mental health
When nurses engage in interventions aimed at improving and supporting the mental health for refugees, their ultimate goal should be reducing inequities, decreasing risk factors, and increasing protective and resilience factors. Nurses should have a keen interest on strengthening the ability of the mentally-handicapped refugees, families, and communities to cope with the everyday life occurrences (Savic et al, 2013; p 390). This should encompass of increasing community or individual resilience; increasing the coping skills; improving the feelings of satisfaction and quality of life; enhancing self-esteem; enhancing a sense of belonging and well-being; strengthening the sense of identity and social supports; and strengthening the balance between psychological, spiritual, emotional, social, and physical health.
Nurses should involve mental health promotion strategies that minimize the factors that place the refugees at risk of diminished mental health. According to Happel et al (2011; p 707) this can be achieved through eliminating or reducing distress and stress; depression; anxiety; sense of helplessness; social exclusion, violence, and abuse; problematic substance abuse; and suicidal attempts’ history or suicidal ideation.
Nurses also have the role of reducing inequities as well as the subsequent impacts on mental health. These inequities are often based on poverty, age, gender, mental or physical disability, employment status, race, geographic location, sexual orientation, and cultural or ethnic background. Nurses can reduce inequities through implementing equity and diversity policies. Nurses can also offer regular equity and diversity training as well as evaluation of the results. Transitional programs can also be created for identified refugee groups. This involves tailoring programs so that they are made more responsive and inclusive to marginalized populations. Nurses also have a great responsibility in promoting anti-stigma campaigns or initiatives that can greatly address the system barriers that the refugees face, including discrimination and racism (Stone, 2012; p8).
References
Correa-Velez, I., Gifford, S. M., & Barnett, A. G. 2010. Longing to belong: social inclusion and wellbeing among youth with refugee backgrounds in the first three years in Melbourne, Australia. Social science & medicine, 71(8), 1399-1408.
Fazel, M., Reed, R. V., Panter-Brick, C., & Stein, A.2012. Mental health of displaced and refugee children resettled in high-income countries: risk and protective factors. The Lancet, 379(9812), 266-282.
Happell, B., PLATANIA‐PHUNG, C., Gray, R., Hardy, S., Lambert, T., McAllister, M., & Davies, C. 2011. A role for mental health nursing in the physical health care of consumers with severe mental illness. Journal of Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing, 18(8), 706-711.
Kirmayer, L. J., Narasiah, L., Munoz, M., Rashid, M., Ryder, A. G., Guzder, J., … & Pottie, K. 2011. Common mental health problems in immigrants and refugees: general approach in primary care. Canadian Medical Association Journal, 183(12), E959-E967.
Potvin, L., & Jones, C. M. 2011. Twenty-five years after the Ottawa charter: The critical role of health promotion for public health. Canadian Journal of Public Health/Revue Canadienne de Sante’e Publique, 244-248.
Schweitzer, R. D., Brough, M., Vromans, L., & Asic-Kobe, M. 2011. Mental health of newly arrived Burmese refugees in Australia: contributions of pre-migration and post-migration experience. Australian and New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry, 45(4), 299-307.
Stone, T. 2012. Mental Health and Illness in Australia: Some Contemporary Facts and Figures. Journal of Nursing Science 29(4), 7-9.
Vasey, K., & Manderson, L. 2012. Regionalizing immigration, health and inequality: Iraqi refugees in Australia. Administrative Sciences, 2(1), 47-62.
Watkins, P. G., Razee, H., & Richters, J. 2012. ‘I’m Telling You… The Language Barrier is the Most, the Biggest Challenge’: Barriers to Education among Karen Refugee Women in Australia. Australian Journal of Education, 56(2), 126-141.
We can write this or a similar paper for you! Simply fill the order form!
The assignment is for a short business report. Sources/references aren’t needed, nor is a title page. However it requires creating and embedding charts within the report. I will attach detailed instructions. Thank you!
SAMPLE ANSWER
To: Ms. Suarez, CEO
From:
July 28th 2014.
Subject: Workforce Transportation habits.
The impact of the company’s workforce on the local traffic can be analyzed from different perspectives. The most appropriate way of assessing the workforce effect is through the analysis of employee behavioural habits and their preferences. Many factors affect the behaviour of employees when transportation becomes a source of employee problems. The following is an analysis of several behavioural habits that have been observed.
Out of a total of 43,500 employees, only 23% opt for carpooling ventures every day of the week while 11% opt for carpooling on certain days of the week. Only 2% randomly decide to use the carpooling option while 64% are not documented which may mean they are undecided or uninterested.
A total of 23556 employees or 54% of all the employees use the public transport system every day of the week while only 5% or 2029 employees use the public transport on certain days of the week. A total of 12,053 employees have never used the public transport system and only 5862 or 13% of the employees use the public transport randomly.
Improvement That May Encourage Use of Public Transportation
The greatest improvement that may encourage the use of public transportation is the implementation of reduced commuter time.
About 7285 or 17% of the total number of employees prefers reduced commuter time than any other activity or precaution that may attract the use of the public transport while 5634 or 13% of employees would use the public transport if the fares were reduced or subsidized. Increased safety perception would attract 4932 or 11% of the employees to use the public transport system while only 3278 or 7% of the employees would be attracted by the conveniences of fewer transfers. More stops for the public transport system would encourage 1155 or 3% of the employees while only 852 or 2% of the employees would be encouraged by cleanliness. A total of 12070 or 28% employees are undecided on what may encourage them to use the public transport system while 8294 or 19% would not be encouraged by anything to use the public transport
The numbers of employees who use the public transport totalling to 17915 or 41% of the employees are illegible for alternative telecommuting options. Employees who have agreed to telecommute several days a week are 1433 or 8% of the employees who use the public transport while those who would telecommute several days a week are 3583 or 20% of the employees who use the public transport system.
The largest number of employees who use the public transport and would agree to telecommute are 5375 or 30% of the total employees who use the public transport while 7524 or 42% of the employees who use the public transport contend that telecommuting options is not applicable in their work options as illustrated in figure 4.
Recommendations
The first recommendation would be to lobby the city or county representatives to reduce the fares charged by the public transporters to encourage the use of the public transport system or to persuade the management to subsidized the fares of public transport to encourage more employees to use the Public transport. Fares discourage the use of the public transport by about 13%. Only 23% of the workforce is engaged on full time carpooling options every day of the week and majority of the employees are undecided or are interested on the carpooling option. About 54% of the employees use the public transport every day of the week and a further 13% would be encouraged to use the public transport if the fares are reduced. Cleanliness discourages only 2% of the workforce while safety measures discourage about 28% of the employees. The 28% of the employees who are undecided on what may encourage them to use the public service would also be encouraged by the reduction of fares of the subsidies being extended from the management.
The other option is to allow the employees whose work options can allow them to telecommute as more time will be saved as shown by the high number of employees who preferred reduced commuter time to even safety. Most Employees are conscious about the time spent commuting and they detest the use of the public transport because of the commuter time taken to reach their destinations. About 17 % of the employees are discouraged from using the public transport because of commuter time. While 42% of the employees who use the public transport are categorical that the telecommuting is not applicable to their work conditions it’s worth noting that about 30% of the employees who use the public transport telecommute randomly and a further 20% telecommute several days a week. It would be very convenient if a section of the employees would be allowed to commute every day of the week as its convenient, safe and time saving.
Finally i would be obliged to discuss the recommendations of the report with you in your own time on any day that you may be available.
We can write this or a similar paper for you! Simply fill the order form!
Information Systems and Decision Making
Decision making, relating to information systems or any strategic considerations, is a critical managerial and leadership competency. Often, decisions require accurate and timely information about the organization, its resources, and its environment. For an organization that has grown too large for any one individual to be involved in its many initiatives, information can be difficult to access and analyze without the use of information technology. In these cases, decision support technologies can play a crucial role in the organization’s success. You will take a look at various types of decision support technologies, or systems, and examine how they can impact strategic decision making as well as day-to-day decisions. You will consider whether and how the available decision support models can be used to enhance strategic decision making.
To be completed:
• Identify various types of decision support systems and how they are used in the organization
• Assess the role of decision support systems in creating superior business strategy
Resources;
Course Text
Management Information Systems for the Information Age
Chapter 4, “Decision Support and Artificial Intelligence: Brainpower for Your Business”
This chapter discusses expert systems, neural networks and fuzzy logic, genetic algorithms, and the four types of agent-based technologies.
Articles
• Fazlollahi, B., & Vahidov, R. (2001). A method for generation of alternatives by decision support systems. Journal of Management Information Systems, 18(2). Retrieved from ABI/INFORM Global database.
This article discusses decision support systems and a method for generating alternatives by these systems.
• Wiederhold, G. (2000). Information systems that really support decision-making. Journal of Intelligent Information Systems, 14(2&150;3). Retrieved from ABI/INFORM Global database.
This article takes a look at which information systems can support real-world decision making.
• Edwards, J. S., Duan, Y., & Robins, P. C. (2000). An analysis of expert systems for business decision making at different levels and in different roles. European Journal of Information Systems, 9(1). Retrieved from ABI/INFORM Global database.
This article examines the use of expert systems at various decision-making levels in an organization.
• Atkin, J. A. D., Burke, E. K., Greenwood, J. S., Reeson, D. (2008). On-line decision support for take-off runway scheduling with uncertain taxi times at London Heathrow airport. Journal of Scheduling, 11(5). Retrieved from ABI/INFORM Global database.
This article examines the use and applicabililty of decision support systems at Heathrow airport.
Web Site
•Power, D. J. (March 10, 2007). A Brief History of Decision Support Systems. Retrieved from http://DSSResources.COM/history/dsshistory.html
SAMPLE ANSWER
Information Systems and Decision Making
Introduction
Decision support systems (DSS) are usually computer-based interactive software whose main function is to help decision makers through the use of data, knowledge and communication technologies to complete the decision-making process. Decisions support systems can be broadly grouped into the four categories below:
Data-driven DSS
Decision support systems that are data-driven are systems that are usually used to query a database for specific information that is required for a decision to be made. Such systems are used by managers, staff, and suppliers for purposes such as determining the levels of available stock so that supply orders can be made and similar decisions (Fazlollahi & Vahidov, 2001). Examples of such systems are computer-based databases that manage data on customers and suppliers and the fulfillment of customer orders.
Communication-driven DSS
Communication-driven decision support systems are basically computer-based communication systems that are mostly used within the organization to facilitate easy communication between teams (Wiederhold, 2000). An example of the application of such systems is in the case of multinational corporations that need to coordinate work between employees in various countries and continents where they implement a system of teleconferencing or even a webinar type of application to facilitate communication. Other examples of such systems include instant messaging systems, chats, Skype calls and net-meeting systems.
Knowledge-driven DSS
A knowledge-driven DSS is a special type of decision support system that provides specialized expertise, which is usually stored as facts, procedures, or rule to solve problems (Edwards, Duan & Robins, 2000). An example of such a system is the clinical decision support system.
Document-driven DSS
Decision support systems that are document-driven are basically used to manipulate information that is widely unstructured in various digital formats.
Model-driven DSS
Model-driven decision support systems are usually used to assist decision makers analyze a particular situation through the manipulation of statistical, simulation or financial models. Such systems usually rely on data provided by the users and the parameters set for the modeling to occur (Power, 2007). Such systems include the financial models used by investment experts to predict the future of stocks.
The role of decision support systems in creating superior business strategy
Decision support systems are being used extensively by businesses to create unique strategies that are superior to their competitors and set them apart from the rest. An example of such a corporation is the Canadian National Railway system that implemented a decision support system that assists the railway in managing the railway tracks. The DSS keeps track of the state of the railways tracks and identifies any tracks that are worn out or in bad repair after which the railway company performs maintenance on the tracks and they are restored. Using the DSS, the CNR was able to reduce the number of train derailments on their tracks, while across the region other railway companies were actually experiencing a significant increase in the number of derailments witnessed annually. Another effective application of DSS is within the medical industry where the Clinical Decision Support System (CDSS) is extremely effective in performing medical diagnosis, and has drastically increased the amount of time taken and resources used in medical diagnosis in the hospitals that use the CDSS. Most businesses use DSS to represent all the relevant information about the business in summary form using charts such that managers have an easy time making strategic decisions using the charts that contain all the necessary information in summarized form.
Conclusion
Decision Support Systems are crucial for businesses as they speed up the speed of the decision making process while at the same time increasing the personal efficiency of the decision makers. DSS also facilitates communication between internal teams, staff, and managers and provides new evidence that was not available without the DSS and the evidence provides enough reason for the decision makers to make certain strategic decisions
References
Fazlollahi, B., & Vahidov, R. (2001). A method for generation of alternatives by decision support systems. Journal of Management Information Systems, 18(2).
Wiederhold, G. (2000). Information systems that really support decision-making. Journal of Intelligent Information Systems, 14(2&150;3).
Edwards, J. S., Duan, Y., & Robins, P. C. (2000). An analysis of expert systems for business decision making at different levels and in different roles. European Journal of Information Systems, 9(1).
In At least 1 paragraph, comments on each of this post with at least one citation, offering your thoughts about the post, or expanding on some points that you felt needed some more thoughts and explanation. Avoid cutting and pasting use proper paraphrasing in this paper, and complete each section by writing the reference list in APA before going to the next section. Importantly you have to support each respond with a credible source and reference it at the end of that section.
Refrain from repeating the writers own words or written, it is important that you read and properly analyze the writers thoughts offering some very constructive thoughts about the post. For section A part one and two you have to read the article associated with the writers post. Using the reference associated to article mention in the post.
SECTION A
Part 1(Sheryl)
What are your thoughts and comments about this post?
Everly, M. C. (2012). Facilitators and barriers of independent decisions by midwives during labor and birth. Journal of Midwifery & Women’s Health, 57(1), 49. doi:10.1111/j.1542-2011.2011.00088.x
The process of qualitative data analysis is very involved, hence, time-consuming. Analysis of qualitative data includes the identification, examination, and interpretation of patterns and themes in data (Jones, 2007). After data is collected the researchers use the raw data to find qualities in the data and then examine them. One method of data analysis is coding. Open (unrestricted) coding logically arranges the data and then there is axial coding where the groups are investigated and labelled (Schmidt & Brown, 2012) to find “relationships between categories and sub categories” (Boswell and Cannon, 2014) and finally selective coding where the researcher combine the concepts gathered around the core category while he or she continues to work on other categories that require some refining (Boswell and Cannon, 2014). The aim of coding is to find shared commonalities in the study which is how themes and patterns emerge. Themes and patterns emerge from the commonalities in the data. Themes are established by almost cross-examining the categories through comparison between and within cases (Health et al., 2012). There are different approaches to develop themes in research; a top-down analysis or deductive which is most time used in quantitative research and bottom-up or inductive approach which is mainly used in qualitative study (Boswell & Cannon, 2014). In the deductive approach, themes and codes are pre-selected based on previous literature, previous theories or the specifics of the research question and in the inductive approach, themes are generated from the data though open coding, followed by refinement of themes (Gale et al., 2013) which is how it was done in this study identified above.
In this study by Everly (2012), one-on-one tape recorded interviews of midwives who had experience in managing labor and birth in both types of settings. The data from the interviews was “transcribed and uploaded into QSR Nvivo 7 (QSR International, Cambridge, MA), a computer-assisted, qualitative data analysis program” (Everly, 2012). The first eight interviews were analyzed line by line for as many codes as possible. The last two did not reveal any new codes. This implied that the themes were identified in the first eight analyses, and the data collected seemed credible. The results were then reviewed with and confirmed by seven of the participants for credibility and trustworthiness (Everly, 2012). The themes identified were trust, the woman, the environment, and the care team. These were very important themes because the expectant mother wants to know that she has a care team that she entrust her life and the life of her unborn to provide care in a trusting and nurturing environment. Patients and their families expect nurses to be caring, honest and supportive. The labor and birth environment can be very stressful for patients and their families and we as nurses should work to reduce that stress. It should be that place where there is “visible regard for human dignity and in which the relationships between the caregivers and those they served are built on mutual respect and a shared commitment to healing” (Mathes, 2011).
Boswell, C., & Cannon, S. (2014). Introduction to nursing research: Incorporating evidence-based practice. Burlington, MA: Jones & Bartlett Learning.
Everly, M. C. (2012). Facilitators and barriers of independent decisions by midwives during labor and birth. Journal of Midwifery & Women’s Health, 57(1), 49. doi:10.1111/j.1542-2011.2011.00088.x
Gale, N., Heath, G., Cameron, E., Rashid, S., & Redwood, S. (2013). Using the framework method for the analysis of qualitative data in multi-disciplinary health research. BMC Medical Research Methodology, 13117. doi:10.1186/1471-2288-13-117
Heath, G., Cameron, E., Cummins, C., Greenfield, S.,
Pattison. H., Kelly, D., Redwood, S. (2012). Paediatric ‘care closer to home’: stake-holder views and barriers to implementation. Health Place. 18(5):1068–1073.
Mathes, S. (2011). Implementing a caring model. Creative Nursing, 17(1).
Respond to this post hear in one paragraph with at least one citation to supports your comments
SECTION A Part 2 (Elizabeth)
Aliasgharpour, M., & Nayeri, D. N. (2012). The care process of diabetic foot ulcer patients: a qualitative
study in Iran. Journal of Diabetic & Metabolic Disorders, 11(27): Retrieved from: http://jdmdonline.com/content/11/1/27.
According to Boswell & Cannon (2014), qualitative research is based on something that is impossible to specifically measure; it is subjective and uses inductive reasoning to create data. The first step in data analysis is the process of systematically searching and arranging the data into units to make it more manageable and then the data is interpreted (Jacelon & O’Dell, 2005). Qualitative data analysis software (QDAS) is a computer program utilized to ease the workload of the researcher not to replace the researcher from actively performing the data analysis (Jacelon & O’Dell, 2005). To assist in searching for changes in the data the data is put into graphs and charts, this visual picture is very effective in looking at a large amount of data and finding any changes or discrepancies (Jacelon & O’Dell, 2005). Once this process is complete the researcher has the challenge of transmitting the results in a way that will be beneficial to the reader (Jacelon & O’Dell, 2005).
In the study by Aliasgharpour and Nayeri (2012), grounded theory method was used in clarifying the care process for Iranian diabetic patients with diabetic foot ulcers. Data saturation was carried out and demographic questionnaires and interviews were used (Aliasgharpour & Nayeri, 2012). After the recorded interviews were transcribed and look over numerous times the key themes were designed with the work of team members (Aliasgharpour & Nayeri, 2012).
Thematic analysis focuses on human experience subjectively, it emphasizes on the participants’ perceptions, feelings and experiences as the paramount object of study (Braun & Clarke, 2006). This is framework of a qualitative study and one of the ways that makes it different from quantitative studies.
References
Aliasgharpour, M., & Nayeri, D. N. (2012). The care process of diabetic foot ulcer patients: a qualitative
study in Iran. Journal of Diabetic & Metabolic Disorders, 11(27): Retrieved from: http://jdmdonline.com/content/11/1/27.
Boswell, C., & Cannon, S. (2014). Introduction to nursing research: Incorporating evidence-based
practice. Burlington, MA: Jones & Bartlett Learning.
Braun, V., & Clarke, V. (2006). Using thematic analysis in psychology. Qualitative Research in
Psychology, 3(2), 77-100.
Respond to this post hear in one paragraph with at least one citation to supports your comments
SECTION B part 1(Lynn)
Qualitative research requires the factor of time to conduct the research and repeatedly analyze the data in various formats to prevent errors in analysis. It is most beneficial for the actual interviewer to review transcribed data for accuracy (Rothwell, 2010). Phenomenology as a research method incorporates personal interviews to depict experiences as stated by the research subjects (Boswell & Cannon, 2014). Audio recordings of the interviews can be played and replayed to ensure accurate transcription. Analytical software has been used in qualitative research since the 1980’s (Woods, Macklin, & Lewis, 2013). As technology improves, so do the capabilities of sophisticated software programs to analyze descriptive data represented in audio recordings and text files. The accessibility to portable mobile devices only enhances these products and complicates the selection process in an already competitive market. In a study to interview subjects who have experienced the phenomenon of recall following general anesthetic for surgery, I would use audio/video recordings to capture expression and tone in responses to interview questions. A review of multiple software products on the market for quality data analysis yielded a preference for the MAXQDA program. Comparatively, the MAXQDA software seems more user friendly with easy to navigate interfaces for input and coding interpretation. I am a visual learner by nature and feel that this software and the overview presented on their website and tutorial offered more than other companies for the type of data I would be interested in analyzing.
Boswell, C., & Cannon, S. (2014).Qualitative and Mixed Research Methods. In C.B. Boswell & S.C. Cannon (Eds.). Introduction to nursing research: incorporating evidence-based practice (6th Ed.). Burlington, MA: Jones & Bartlett Learning.
Rothwell, E. (2010). Analyzing focus group data: content and interaction. Journal For Specialists In Pediatric Nursing, 15(2), 176–180.
Woods, M., Macklin, R., & Lewis, G. (2013). How has Computer-Assisted Qualitative Data Analysis Software affected qualitative research? Retrieved from http://www.nova.edu/ssss/QR/TQR2013/woods_etal.pdf
Respond to this post hear in one paragraph with at least one citation to supports your comments
SECTION B Part 2(Mary)
Case studies are a design that investigates one person at a time or a group of people. This type of design is used when more information is needed about a particular situation (Boswell, C. & Cannon, S. 2014). The information may be small as in one case but the variables are large as in many cases concerning that case study. Data collection is either clinically done, observationally done or in the field. These data collections are done through a process so that the particular study can be followed and analyzed (Cronin, C. 2014).
The qualrus qualitative analysis program is what I would use to examine the data collected from the case study. Qualrus qualitative analysis program is designed to be easy to use, exceptionally good for ciphering through large amounts of information, and different types of wording. I would use this program because it makes since of information that’s not structured, the format is also unstructured and the information is conveyed from different researchers and studies and also has been collected over a long period of time. This is what is involved when doing a case study about a particular situation of interest. It also makes case study research convenient, because I could work at home as well as the office with this software (Qualrus, 2014).
References
Boswell, C., & Cannon, S. (2014). Introduction to Nursing Research: Incorporating Evidence-Based Practice. (3rd ed.). Burlington, WA: Jones & Bartlett Learning
Cronin, C. (2014). Using case study research as rigorous form of inquiry, Nurse Researcher, 21(5), 19-27
Respond to this post hear in one paragraph with at least one citation to supports your comments
SAMPLE ANSWER
Identifying Patterns
I agree with Sherly that the qualitative data analysis process is extremely involving as well as time consuming. This is based on the fact that results are only identified after themes and patterns are analyzed from the gathered literature and data. Noteworthy, the writer also acknowledges the significance of coding when identifying themes and patterns from data. There may be the use of selective, open, and axial coding. I support Sherly’s view that coding aims at finding the shared commonalities of data, and this leads to the identification of patterns and themes. The writer is also keen to mention that themes can be identified after the deductive and inductive approaches. The study actually used the inductive approach. In the study, themes and patterns were identified through a thorough analysis using the tape recorded interviews, transcription, and QSR Nnivo 7. The interviews had every line analyzed and within the first 6, there was saturation. The participants were involved in analyzing the results so as to promote trustworthiness and credibility. The analysis identified the themes as the care team, environment, women, and trust (Everly, 2012).
Reference
Everly, M. C. (2012). Facilitators and barriers of independent decisions by midwives during labor and birth. Journal of Midwifery & Women’s Health, 57(1), 49. doi:10.1111/j.1542-2011.2011.00088.x
Elizabeth also notes that qualitative data is subjective and there is usually the use of inductive reasoning when creating data. However, the writer should also have noted the role of deductive reasoning. It is impressive for the writer to specify that there should be first systematic searching as well as arranging the data. These data units make it manageable and the interpretation becomes very easy (Aliasgharpour & Nayeri, 2012). Elizabeth recognizes the use of the qualitative data analysis software that makes identifying patterns and themes easy. Another method that can be used is reading and re-reading through the data until there is saturation and themes and patterns are identified. In the study, there was transcription and thorough assessment for identification of themes.
Reference
Aliasgharpour, M., & Nayeri, D. N. (2012). The care process of diabetic foot ulcer patients: a qualitative
study in Iran. Journal of Diabetic & Metabolic Disorders, 11(27): Retrieved from: http://jdmdonline.com/content/11/1/27.
Lynn notes that qualitative research is time consuming since immense time is required for conducting the research and analyzing the data repeatedly using different formats so as to prevent analytical errors. I support Lynn in that the actual interviewer has to review the transcribed data so as to promote accuracy. My take is that audio recording should be supplemented by notes, which promote accurate transcription and analysis to identify themes and patterns. The writer notes that with the improved technology, there are also improved and sophisticated software programs for analyzing descriptive data. I recommend the use of video and audio recordings as well as the MAXQDA software (MAXQDA, The Art of Data Analysis, 2014). This software is user friendly and it promotes data analysis in qualitative studies.
I agree with Mary that case studies involve studying a person or group intensive for a certain period of time. This is more so when a lot of information is needed from the specific group. The data can be collected from the field, observationally, or clinically (Boswell & Cannon, 2014). I consent with Mary that the qualrus qualitative analysis program is very strategic for use in case studies since it is easy to use, permits a comprehensive sieving through huge amounts of data, and various forms of wording emerge. Using the software is portable for the researcher and different studies and researchers can be involved at the same time.
Reference
Boswell, C., & Cannon, S. (2014). Introduction to Nursing Research: Incorporating Evidence-Based Practice. (3rd ed.). Burlington, WA: Jones & Bartlett Learning
We can write this or a similar paper for you! Simply fill the order form!
Hear below are some additional information and resources to help for this assignment . It is critical that the writer properly respond to all questions in the template as clearly indicated YES and No responses are not all welcome and the writer must verify that all responses are accurate , and also she must attached the article use for the analysis together with the completed assignment . the article cannot be more than 5 years old and must be from the U.S or Canada . The Pdf file should be attached together with the completed paper. Use the resources below to help understand what is suppose to be done , the is no room for mistakes for this paper , and it is Due MONDAY JULY 28, 2014.
ANALYSIS OF RESEARCH DATA
Analyzing Qualitative Data
In qualitative studies, data are analyzed by reviewing the textual data and coding it based on patterns and themes. This is a time-consuming process and explains why the sample size of qualitative studies is considerably less than in quantitative studies. Every word must be read multiple times to determine patterns. These patterns are pulled out and listed as FINDINGS.
Activities
REQUIRED ACTIVITIES
From your textbooks, read:
Introduction to Nursing Research Incorporating Evidence-Based Practice
Chapter 12
Chapter 13
Please retrieve and read the following journal articles
Rothwell, E. (2010). Analyzing focus group data: content and interaction. Journal For Specialists In Pediatric Nursing, 15(2), 176–180.
Ryan, F., Coughlan, M., & Cronin, P. (2007). Step-by-step guide to critiquing research. Part 2: qualitative research. British Journal Of Nursing (BJN), 16(12), 738–744.
Smith, J., & Firth, J. (2011). Qualitative data analysis: the framework approach. Nurse Researcher, 18(2), 52–62.
Please review the following websites.
Analyzing Qualitative Data
Please use the below Qualitative Critique Completion Form to complete your critique of quantitative research. Type in your responses under EACH section. If your opinion is that the research article does not address or infer an answer to a particular section, then you must so state and JUSTIFY your statement.
IMPORTANT:
Do notleave any section blank!
Do notprovide a “yes” or “no” answer without an You must justify all your responses.
ALL responses must be written in YOUR OWN WORDS. Do NOT use quotes.
You must submit the full article in PDF form. Critiques submitted without the PDF will not be accepted.
STUDENT NAME
Full and Complete Reference for the Article
Note: You must submit the full article in PDF form. Critiques submitted without the PDFwill not be accepted.
Problem
What is the problem the study was conducted to address?
The study aimed as assessing the reasons why registered nurses left the nursing field immediately after starting their nursing practice.
Why is the problem an important one for nursing to study?
The challenge is vital since the nursing study required amendments that should be implemented with perfection and exact accuracy. This study will assist in addressing any issues that negatively influence the nursing industry.
Study Purpose
What is the purpose of the study?
The study aimed at identifying the factors that influence the registered nurses’ decision to quit the clinical nursing profession immediately after joining.
Research Questions
What are the research question(s)?
What is the meaning of bedside nursing?
How is the role of the clinical or bedside nurse defined?
What is the relationship that exists between the RN and her patient?
What are the reasons or situations that contribute to the RNs’ decision to quit bedside nursing?
What situations exemplify the relationship between co-workers when offering direct patient care?
Do RNs find career fulfillment after changing from the nursing practice?
What conditions do RNs state if they were to return to the clinical nursing practice?
What reasons made the participate RNs to participate in the study?
Are the questions stated broadly enough for a qualitative study? Explain WHY.
The questions are inadequate and are not 100% fit for the qualitative study. There is a need for more clarification so as to ensure that the respondents are exact. For instance, no questions address the issue of leaving the nursing field (Holloway & Wheeler, 2013).
Study Design
What specific qualitative method is used?
The phenomenological research design was used to offer an in-depth comprehension of the decisions to quit the clinical practice. The interpretive hermeneutic method would give meaning to experience.
Provide a clear description of the qualitative method utilized (utilize your text or another source to do this – provide citation)
When using this method, the data is obtained through the use of in-depth, personal, unstructured, or semi-structured interviews. The interview sessions are long and the researcher may need to have several sessions with a participant (Watzlawik & Born, 2007). Since there is a heavy reliance on interviews as the data collection method, the researcher should have good interviewing skills. For analysis purposes, the interviews are tape-recorded. The participants have real life experiences, are willing to participate, and can articulate conscious experiences. The participants range from 5- 25 and when using the phenomenological research approach, there is a focus on what is vital for the meaning of an interaction, episode, or event. The participants’ voice is sought. The problem can either be direct or indirect. A central, single question may guide the research. A number of sub questions orient researchers in gathering data as well as framing the results (Watzlawik & Born, 2007).
In what way is the method used an appropriate one for this study? Clearly justify your answer.
The method is proper since it is intensive and promotes double-checking of the gathered data’s accuracy. The method is the most explanatory and specific in research.
Philosophical/Theoretical Framework Basis for the Study (Determine from Literature – this does not refer to the methodology.)
Identify the philosophical/theoretical basis of the study.
This study’s basis is explaining why the practice of nursing experiences nurses shortage yet RNs are being recruited continuously in USA. There is a deficit of approximately half a million professionals and the turnover rate is still very high (Keele, 2010). The study aims at assessing the reasons for the high turnover. The study is founded on the belief that there is something amiss in the profession, and aims at identifying these challenges. This challenge is compounded by the fact that across th country, nursing schools are making immense efforts to expand capacity so as to meet the escalating demand for healthcare considering the national move towards healthcare reform. The AACN (American Association of Colleges of Nursing) is collaborating with the media, nursing organizations, policy makers, and schools to bring attention to the issue. AACN is leveraging its resources so as to shape legislation, form collaborations, and identify strategies for addressing the shortage. Apart from encouraging and recruiting more nurses into the profession, there is a need to address the challenges the current ones are facing.
Describe/discuss the references cited to support the philosophical or theoretical approach used.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Employment Projections 2010- 2020 February that was released in 2012, the RNs workforce rates the highest in regard to job expansion through 2020. It is anticipated that the employed nurses’ number will increase from 2.7 million (2010) to 3.45 million (2020). This represents a 26% or 712,000 increase. These projections further indicate the need for approximately 495, 500 replacements in the workforce. As a result, the total job opening number for nurses due to replacements and growth will grow to 1.2 million (2020). The US Registered Nurse Workforce Report Card and Shortage Forecast that was published in 2012 January’s issue of the American Journal of Medical Quality, a RNs shortage is anticipated to spread across the nation between 2009- 2030. The authors predict in the state by state analysis that the most critical shortage will be experienced in the West and South.
Is the philosophical or theoretical basis of the study clearly linked with the study assumptions, data collection procedures and analytical and interpretative approach. How? If not, describe what is missing.
A majority of the philosophical study agrees with the study’s assumptions. For example, there are assumptions that the high turnover could be as a result of stress as well as sub-optimal working conditions. These are confirmed in the study at the end. The economic benefits’ assumption never came out clearly.
How is the framework related to the body of knowledge in nursing?
The framework elaborates a real challenge that has been ignored for sometime. It relates to the nursing’s body of knowledge in relation to the reasons for the high turnover. A higher percentage of the knowledge is really the actual reasons. The link is actual based on the fact that there is a relationship to the real occurrences in nursing. The qualitative study uses an interpretive narrative strategy and a constructive paradigm. Often, case studies have narratives approaching the contradictions and complexities of real life, and this is useful for describing, exploring, and comprehending a phenomenon. Investigating cases intensively offers contextual knowledge of real phenomena which would not be achieved if the population-based approach is being used. The case-centered research adds knowledge regarding how nurses construct novel career identities and experience career transitions.
Review of the Related Literature
Are the articles relevant with previous studies and theories described? Justify your response.
The articles are relevant based on the fact that there is an actual and acknowledged nursing shortage. The articles propose so. This is also confirmed by the theories and there are explanations why. RNs are leaving the profession although there is still a shortage. Statistics support the article’s proposition and theories.
Are the references current? What are the number of sources within past 10 years? What are the number of sources within past five years?
There are current references that are within the previous 10 years (3) and 5 years (2).
Describe the current knowledge about the research problem.
The current knowledge on nursing shortage predicts that US is anticipated to experience a sharp shortage with the increasing healthcare need and aging of the Baby Boomers. This challenge is compounded by the fact that nursing school in the nation are making efforts to escalate the capacity of meeting the increasing care demand considering the move towards healthcare reform. There is increased collaborations and more resources are dedicated towards addressing the issue. The use of the qualitative approach made explaining the turnover easier as a multidimensional and ongoing process where several factors lead to a final decision to quit the profession. The narrative career interviews constitute a feasible data collection method relating to career transition processes. In-depth narrative stories offer special real-life contextual knowledge related to nurses’ experiences amidst such career transitions (Watzlawik & Born, 2007).
Specify the gap in the literature that justifies the need for the research.
The reasons why RNs are quitting the nursing profession are unknown. Therefore, the study aimed at identifying these reasons. At the same time, over half a million nurses are needed although the few that are available are quitting.
Subjects and Setting
Describe the subjects and the setting.
The subjects were recruited through the use of a snowball technique. Presently practicing RNs at different hospitals in southeastern US were contacted by a primary researchers. They were asked if they were aware of nurses who had quit the profession. The study was described in an email and these nurses were asked to assist in recruiting potent participant. Every potential participant was contacted through the telephone before the interview so as to ensure that they meet the study criteria. All recruitments are made using the telephone. Recruitment was not limited to one hospital but efforts were made to contact any known RN who was not practicing and was willing to be part of the study. After the proposed study was described briefly, the researcher determined a proper location and convenient time to conduct the interview. The setting was proper for the interviewer and subject; the setting had to be agreed about. Email and phone calls communication were used first when creating the contact.
In what way is the method of obtaining subjects appropriate? Justify your answer.
It promotes the surety that subjects will be met and the most appropriate ones will be obtained. Since there was no known sample of nurses who had left the practice they were sought through referrals and there was guarantee they would be obtained. The interviewer and subjects create a rapport and can meet again if need be. Moreover, earlier information can clarified.
In what way is the size of the sample used adequate? Justify your answer.
The sample size was sufficient. It was non-probability sampling and identified the primary participants. The sample was based on the purpose and judgment of the research. All the time used was accounted for well. By the time the last 2 interviews were being reviewed, there was data saturation and this indicated the sample size was adequate.
In what way was the setting in which data were collected an appropriate one for this study? Why? Justify your answer.
The setting made noting the information to be gathered easy. Moreover, any mistakes made earlier could be rectified since there was an audiotaped record. The notes could be rectified and the audiotape could be re-listened for any clarifications.
Indicate the type of consent obtained and institutional review board approval.
The Institutional Review Board approval involved recruitment of study participants and it was from Georgia State University. The participants signed a written informed consent that guaranteed anonymity, voluntariliness, and interviews’ termination at any time.
In what way were the steps taken to protect the rights of subjects adequate?
The participants had a chance of meeting again with the researchers so as to clarify any vital information. As a result, the participants would not be quoted wrongly when writing the final draft. The participants’ consent to participate in the study was sought. They also received transcripts’ copies so that they would review them for accuracy (Hennink, Hutter & Bailey, 2010).
Data Collection Procedure and Appropriateness of Data Analysis Methods
Identify the data collection procedures used and provide a description of how the data was collected.
The data was gathered from a sample that was made up of ten participants. The participants had adequate time to react to the e-mails. In addition, there were phone calls for briefs before the face-to-face meeting was scheduled.
In what way were the data collection procedures used consistent with the purpose of the qualitative approach selected? Clearly justify your answer.
Consistency was maintained in that the pre-conditions that were for the participants were never changed. The participants were required to give proof that they were RNs. No procedures were changed and all the participants adhered to the same procedure. The number of participants was adequate and this gave adequate time for the entire process to take place (Watzlawik & Born, 2007).
Define data saturation.
Data saturation refers to the point at which the data collection process can stop. This is the point at which the researcher starts collecting repetitive information such that there are no new ideas being generated.
What evidence is there that data saturation was achieved? Describe fully.
The most common reason the participants gave for quitting the practice is unfriendly workplace. Many of the participants stated this reason. This was a saturated data since the last two interviews only repeated themes identified in the first six interviews.
Specific Data Analysis Procedures Used
Identify the qualitative data analysis procedures used to examine the data
The data analysis procedures utilized in examining are typology, taxonomy, constant comparison/ grounded theory, induction, logical/ matrix analysis, quasi-statistics/ quantitative, frame/ event analysis, and metaphorical analysis (Guest & McQueen, 2008).
Define the qualitative data analysis procedures used.
Typology refers to the creation of a classification system or list of categories that are mutually exclusive.
Taxonomy refers to a typology that has multiple concept levels.
Constant comparison/ grounded theory is coding of documents, axial/ core categories emerge, and categories saturate (Hennink, Hutter & Bailey, 2010).
Induction involves forming a hypothesis about an event and then comparing to similar events so as to verify/ modify/ falsify hypothesis. Eventually, the general or central hypothesis emerges.
Quasi-statistics or quantitative involves counting the number of events or mentionings. This mainly supports categories.
Frame/ event analysis identifies certain boundaries of events, and eventually, event phases.
Metaphorical analysis involves developing particular metaphors for an event. The participants are also asked for comparisons or spontaneous metaphors.
In what way(s) are the data analysis procedures appropriate for the data collected? Clearly justify your answer.
All these approaches are proper in giving a picture of reasoning regarding why the study is vital. For example, the typology process assists in determining the gender that was most affected. The quantitative procedure was useful in coming up with figures (numbers and percentages) of those who were affected by a certain issue of concern or reason. There were boundaries in the span of sample’s setting and size. This is a confirmation to the frame/ event analysis procedure. The data analysis procedures led to identification of themes and patterns until there was data saturation.
In what way(s) are the data analysis procedures consistent with the qualitative method used? Clearly justify your answer.
All the procedures are within the research question. The procedures target the reasons of the turnover, which brings in the aspect of RNs workplace quality and, therefore, the quantitative aspect. There is a focus on the why and how all that occurred, and to whom. With qualitative studies, analysis aims at identifying themes and patterns, which was clearly evident in the study.
Evidence of Auditability/Decision Trail/Member checks
Define decision trail.
This is a strategy allowing another researcher to use the same data and follow the original researcher’s logic. The decision trail results to an audit trail and this permits the replication of original findings after data reexamination.
Was a decision trail developed? Was it reported in sufficient detail? Clearly justify your answer.
In the first place, the researcher attributes three reasons to the turnover. Previous research identified economic benefits and the current research identifies two other reasons. The initial facts are from an initial research and this conforms to the decision trail. The trail is however not adequate since there is no mention of where the research was obtained from.
Specific Results Obtained
In YOUR OWN WORDS, what are the outcomes of the study? What did the study reveal? Provide a DETAILED response of at least ONE FULL PARAGRAPH as this is worth 8 points!
The study was extremely successful in discovering the reasons that led to the nurse turnover. The study identified three reasons that led to the exodus; emotional distress that was linked to patient care; exhaustion and fatigue; and emotional distress. The study also elaborates these reasons comprehensively. For example, the participants mention some of the reasons that led to the turnover as physical or verbal abuse from the co-workers, physicians, and managers; sexual harassment; and consistent support lack from other RNs. The nurses reported that emotional distress linked to patient care was identified when nurses reported the conflicts they felt in regard to patient care decisions, most particularly, ignoring the patients. Exhaustion and fatigue was characterized by the constant comments on overwhelming physical and emotional exhaustion (Hennink, Hutter & Bailey, 2010).
Strengths and Limitations
What are two major strengths of the scientific merit of this study? (This does NOT refer to outcomes of the study). Address credibility and confirmability.
The first strength is that the study is interpretive; all aspects that the researchers pose are interpreted in the study and there is a mention of their effect or benefit in the study field. facts are obtained and digested fully. Often, there are measures to oversee the collected fact’s effect. The study is also qualitative and exhaustive; the researcher does not stop at the data collection point but goes beyond to assess the participant again so as to ensure that they were sure of what they reported. In case of mistakes, the participant has a chance to rectify.
What are two major limitations of the scientific merit of this study?
The sample size is the first limitation; although the sample size may be exhausted fully, the sample’s magnitude does not represent all the RNs who have left the practice. The sample size of ten participants is not representative. The study consumes a lot of time; with every participant, arrangements to meet are made, followed by the meeting, and subsequent meetings for information verification. The exercise is expensive and long (Guest & McQueen, 2008).
To what extent are the study findings valid? Justify your answer.
The findings of the study are valid to the greater extent. The theories that were previously held are proved to a huge extent. The researchers’ and participants’ reasoning also prove the same thing. The ideas the researcher had are supported by the participants. This means that the challenge is real and if the flaws identified are rectified, then nursing shortage can be addressed.
Implications/Recommendations
How did the researcher generalize the findings? Where in nursing can the results be applied?
The researcher acknowledges the increasing medical technology requirements; increased patients’ acuity; and complicated nursing shortage phenomena, which call for the great need to retain the experienced bedside nursing staff. Medical surgical nurses can benefit greatly if they recognize that workplace perceptions greatly contribute to RNs quitting the practice (Guest & McQueen, 2008).
What did the researchers say the relevance of the data was? Describe the researchers’ interpretation of the findings.
The researcher recommends that exploring the study’s concepts in detail is very vital and can benefit each nurse, family, patient, and improve care’s quality. The data is relevant since it gave the actual reasons why nurses left the practice. The reasons that can nurses’ turnover mainly deal with the environment in which nurses practice. They can be addressed for better outcomes and the management should be keen on eliminating these flaws.
What suggestions for further study were identified?
Further suggestions are exploring the reasons why some RNs regard abuse to be acceptable in the clinical practice. The 2nd exploration is the power differentials among RNs, its connection to vertical indifference perceptions, and the ultimate effect in nursing intent or turnover.
Is the description of the study sufficiently clear for replication? Why or why not?
The description is adequate for replication since the participants were selected appropriately and offered valuable information.
REFLECTION
Reflect on your newly developed understanding of QUALITATIVE research. What has this experience meant to you? How will this make a difference in your practice of nursing? This is a personal reflection and should have some depth (at least two full paragraphs). Please respond in reference to understanding qualitative methodology and not the specific focus of the research study.
After reading and critiquing the qualitative research, I realized it was a clear and an effective way of acquiring information in the factual form. The sample should not necessarily be big so as to offer the clearest findings. The participants should be prepared for the research through the consent sought and the explanations done. The qualitative study offers broad conceptualizations regarding why things are the way they are. There is a great need to explore these concepts in detail since this will bring about immense benefits in the nursing practice. If the participants offer the wrong information, this can be addressed when clarifying the information they offered. This promotes accuracy and validity in qualitative research approaches.
The qualitative study experience gave an insight of the challenges that new nurses’ experience. In the nursing practice, there is a need to avoid the issues that the qualitative study revealed including conflicts, abuses, and negligence so as to promote the nursing practice and patient care. The qualitative approach is very useful when there is an intention to uncover real life situations. More research can be directed on the issues that are associated with nursing turnover using the qualitative approach so as to understand them better.
What has the experience of reading and critiquing a qualitative study meant to you? How will understanding and using qualitative research findings make a difference in your practice of nursing?
The experience was insightful and nice where reconfirming facts is vital even though theories may be favorable for the research.
How will understanding and using qualitative research findings make a difference in your practice of nursing?
The findings are quite encouraging since the issues revealed are real. However, they can be solved if the nursing practice is made more admirable and friendly. There is a need to explore these findings in detail so as to promote more positive impacts in the practice.
REFERENCES
Please list at least FIVE references (APA) used to inform your responses to the questions. Be sure you have properly cited the references with your answers.
Guest, G., & McQueen, K. (2008). Handbook for team-based qualitative research. New York: Cengage Learning.
Hennink, M., Hutter, I., & Bailey, A. (2010). Qualitative Research Methods. New York: SAGE.
Holloway, I., & Wheeler, S. (2013). Qualitative Research in Nursing and Healthcare. Boston: John Wiley & Sons.
Keele, R. (2010). Nursing Research and Evidence based practice. London: Jones & Bratlett.
Watzlawik, M., & Born, A. (2007). Capturing Identity: Quantitative and Qualitative Methods. Washington: University of America Press.
We can write this or a similar paper for you! Simply fill the order form!
Fleet Planning
Project description
when considering an order for new aircraft” fleet commonality” is an element that planners consider. What are the main benefits of commonality between a new aircraft and the existing fleet? How significant are each of these? How long lasting?
some airlines seems to value these benefits highly and order aircraft from the same manufacturer as their existing fleet , with much commonality .Give at least two recent examples of this and give the likely rationale for their decisions, with references.
on the other hand some airlines seem to find on offer sufficient attractive to persuade them to forego the benefit of commonality with their existing fleet fleet. why might this be? Give at least two examples of this with likely rationale for their decisions, with references. How might the benefits be mitigated?
why might an airline order two different aircraft types from two different manufacturers with similar specifications, foregoing commonality benefits within the new fleets? with references.( HINT: Think of a Boeing and an Airbis with similar specs then Google each type- BXXX aircraft orders and Axxx aircraft orders . Having found an example , Google that airlines aircraft orders. This normally takes you to news items which may include the rationale.
what opportunities and issues do full or partial mergers between airlines raise in fleet decisions in terms of commonality? give at least one example with references.
Does joining an alliance offer similar benefits in terms of fleet acquisitions? Give your reasons.
SAMPLE ANSWER
Fleet Planning
Introduction
Fleet commonality is a factor that most airline companies are focusing on. Airlines have the opportunity to choose from different products when a new aircraft is being purchased. However, planners tend to opt for the aircraft that has commonality to the already existing products. This is because there are many benefits associated with this trend. On the contrary, research also shows that going for a new type of aircraft may be the best way to boost sales to a much higher level.
Benefits of Commonality between a New Aircraft and the Existing Fleet
This strategy has benefits in the operational perspective in that one pilot will still be able to operate the new aircraft. This is significant since in case of an emergency, one pilot can easily step in for the other. Therefore, the airline will not have to suffer losses from delayed or cancelled flights. Such occurrences result to loss of loyal customers as they can start to question the reliability of the airline. This benefit is long lasting because the pilots will always be able to step in for each other. Thus, when one pilot cannot be available for the flight, the other pilot or an assistant will still be qualified to handle the plan. When planes are delayed or cancelled, the airline usually suffers a great loss even in the long term because the customers lose trust in the company.
Second, the airline company will also be able to reduce costs associated with training new pilots, or transitioning a pilot to the new aircraft. When a new type of aircraft is purchased, these costs will be inevitable since the current pilots will not be equipped with the necessary skills to handle such a product. This benefit is short lasting because the costs will only be saved whenever a new aircraft is purchased.
Third, the staffing level, which may also change as a result of a new aircraft with no commonality, is also reduced. The more the staff, the more the costs associated with salaries. This may affect the financial stability of a company, especially when it is still new and growing. The airline company will be in a position to benefit from salary amounts that they are able to pay their staff without delay. Fourth, a new type also requires additional spares, a factor that may be avoided in case a common product is purchased. Although this is not of much significance, the airline may benefit from saved costs, which may have been influenced by the purchase of entirely new spares. Unfortunately, this amount is short lasting because whenever a spare is used, the airline company will still be forced to purchase another product.
Good examples of airlines with the above characteristics include Southwest and JetBlue airlines. JetBlue features the introduction of new types of aircrafts into its fleet. The main reason why this is so is that the company is trying to increase revenue by offering products that will meet all types of market demand. The products are supposed to satisfy the unmet needs of the customers. For instance, starting in the second quarter of 2014, this company will launch a refreshed version of core JetBlue Experience, as well as introduce another type that will enhance experience of passengers (Our Planes, 2014). On the contrary, Southwest airlines are strict on introducing a common aircraft to its fleet. This is because the costs associated with it will not be excessive; therefore, the company will still be able to manage the customer service offered (Southwest Corporate Fact Sheet, 2014). Here, the plane tickets are purchased at low price, and other services are offered for free.
Reasons why some Airlines Forego the Fleet Commonality Strategy
Although choosing fleet commonality may feel like the best option for airlines, it is also common to find some airlines giving up the commonality for a new type of aircraft. This is usually the case when an airline notices an opportunity to save more and still benefit to a certain level, when the new type of aircraft is purchased. The target market is the major factor that drives the creation of a product or service. Therefore, it closely affects the type of fleet planning decision made. Just like many other companies, market demand is what airlines try to meet. When a new aircraft has all the content that will make it capable of satisfying the needs of the target market, and the price offered for the product is fair, then an airline company will most certainly opt for it. Another reason why some companies choose to mix their aircraft is because they already know the advantages. At times, purchasing a new type of aircraft is usually more beneficial than going for the common type. This is in terms of the long term benefits associated with gaining the right fleet size.
The Southwest and JetBlue carriers can help demonstrate this occurrence. Southwest airline decided to go with the fleet commonality because the management noticed that there is so much at stake. This airline offers cheap services to its consumers, and this is the major method that they use to ensure that customers return for other services (Galletti, Lee & Kozman, 2010). JetBlue, on the other hand, is a company that is more focused on the market demand. Therefore, if they bring in new products to meet market demand, the company will benefit from more sales in future (Chunhua, Johnson & Smith, 2009). Currently, there is not much to lose if a new aircraft is introduced mainly because the tickets are sold at an expensive price. These benefits associated with each choice may be mitigated by ensuring that the airline company decides basing on qualitative research conducted on its system.
Commonality benefits can also be foregone when an airline opts to purchase two similar airline products from different producers. The main reason why this happens is as a result of product quality. Both companies that are producing similar products cannot have the same quality policies (Brüggen & Klose, 2010). Therefore, one aircraft may have better quality than the other. When the airline company has two airline products from different producers, the risk of suffering total loss is reduced. If one aircraft fails, the other one will probably still be functioning and bringing in sales. Another reason for ordering same product from different companies is so that the airline can enjoy the various benefits associated with each individual product. Although the resulting feel will be similar, such an airline will have taken a mixed fleet approach. Along with the benefits of having a mixed fleet, the airline will still be able to reduce costs for the new fleet (Treanor, Carter, Rogers & Simkins, 2013). With a similarity in products, pilots will be able to cater for the other product without problems since they are basically the same.
Opportunities and Issues that Mergers between Airlines Raise in Fleet Decisions in Terms of Commonality
Mergers in airline companies usually raise either opportunities or issues on the fleet decision for both full and partial situations. When an airline merges with another, it becomes difficult to make a decision without informing the other party. This usually results to great disputes since the two airlines both have their own leaders. Thus, it becomes unclear on who should have the final say. For example, American and US Airways recently merged officially to create one of the biggest airlines in the region (Rushe, 2013). These two airlines have opportunities to grow since each group will enjoy the increased sales. There is also a better opportunity to cut costs since the airline will now be treated as belonging to one specific airline. For instance, the American and US Airways merger was one way to help get the American airways out of its bankruptcy situation (Rushe, 2013). Therefore, any airline company hoping to reduce costs and increase growth should consider merging its aircraft with that of another company, which has promising results.
The Effect of Alliances in Fleet Acquisitions
Merging airlines, however, is also associated with various challenges that are worth considering before getting into the process. First, merging the staff and technology is usually very difficult as what worked for one company may not be what will work for both (Rushe, 2013). It takes time to find a balance in what works for both companies. The staff of the airlines may pose a challenge when they start resisting the change. This will require time and necessary management skill to help change the situation. For example, in 2010 United’s merger with Continental resulted to years of technology problems (Rushe, 2013). Therefore, in terms of commonality, issues will be present, and thus, the decision making process is made more difficult. This affects productivity because there are times when a decision is required as fast as possible.
The problem with a merger is that the decision to purchase an aircraft is greatly affected. Before a merger, each airline has the freedom to obtain an aircraft that will meet its customer’s needs. The customer needs of airlines are not same since their prices and pricing strategies are also different. Hence, fleet acquisition benefits will not be similar for both sides. Only one airline will eventually acquire the merged plane (Galletti, Lee & Kozman, 2010).
Conclusion
There are advantages for both choices on fleet commonality. Management should not choose to go for a common approach since what works for one airline will not work for all airlines. Instead, fleeting decisions need to be made based on the financial and operational states of the airline. The type of aircraft purchased needs to make the situation better by bringing in more sales and cutting costs. If the company notices that sales will be disturbed, and costs will be too much, then the choice in mind is probably not the best.
References
Brüggen, A., & Klose, L. (2010). How fleet commonality influences low-cost airline operating performance: Empirical evidence. Journal Of Air Transport Management, 16(6), 299-303. doi:10.1016/j.jairtraman.2010.02.006
Chunhua, G., Johnson, E., & Smith, B. (2009). Integrated Airline Fleet and Crew Robust Planning. Transportation Science, 43(1), 2-16.
Galletti, D. W., Lee, J., & Kozman, T. (2010). Competitive benchmarking for fleet cost management. Total Quality Management & Business Excellence, 21(10), 1047-1056. doi:10.1080/14783363.2010.487709
Our Planes. (2014). Retrieved July 27, 2014, from JetBlue: www.jetblue.com/travel/planes/
Treanor, S. D., Carter, D. A., Rogers, D. A., & Simkins, B. J. (2013). Operational and Financial Hedging: Friend or Foe? Evidence from the U.S. Airline Industry. Journal Of Accounting & Finance (2158-3625), 13(6), 64-91.
We can write this or a similar paper for you! Simply fill the order form!
How effective is Virgin Air Human Resource Management in ensuring good Customer Service?
Order Instructions:
the topic is :
I chose Virgin Atlantic because it has a problem that is connected to Human Resource Management form the poor performance in customer service. There are over than 58 persons complained about the customer service of the employees (Dudovskiy, J. ,2012).. Firstly, it effect about their reputation among loyal customer. The first cause was about the few years ago on the quality of the employee was unprofessional with customers also this is because the following cases:
1- According to customer Anne on September 8, 2013, she complains about Virgin employees are unhelpful, ignoring customer, rude and arrogant.
2- In addition, there is anther customer complains about the bad services named Bianca’s which he faced a luggage delayed; with no reply about his complaining form the staff.
There are many causes leads to decrease on the customer services on Virgin. There are internal and external changes have direct and indirect relations in these changing for this purpose, the researcher has selected Virgin Atlantic Airline to develop of Virgin’s human resource strategies to promote quality and reliable customer service delivery. The proposed research work is focusing on understanding how airline industry’s human resource practices influence the quality of services provided to the customers.
My job on the report as consultant for Virgin Air’s which might help them to decrease some problems in their environment.
answer the below Questions and each point include in text reference
Executive Summary
1. Introduction:
1.1 Background:
1.2 What is the virgin issue?
1.3 The propose of the report
2. To what extent does Virgin’s HR Management support good customer service?
2.1 How does virgin’s HRM Support good customer service?
2.2 Academic theory might change HRM?
2.2.1 Maslow can be useful & analysis
2.2.2 Taylor theory of management analysis
2.3 How successful these theory on Virgin’s HRM?
3. HR Strategy
3.1 HRM & Virgin leadership forecast some improvements on the HR Management.
3.1.1 Leadership of truism
3.1.2 Leadership of customer services
3.1.2 leadership Recommendations
3.2 HRM & Motivation can change customer services track?
3.2.1 Motivation theories analysis
3.2.2 Motivation recommendations
4. Conclusion
SAMPLE ANSWER
Virgin Air Human Resource Management
How effective is Virgin Air Human Resource Management in ensuring good Customer Service?
Introduction
Virgin Air is an airline that has a global reputation for being a leader in customer service and most of its loyal customers can attest to this, but recently there have been increasing incidents of complaints by customers who have been treated badly by customer service representatives. These incidents have got the attention of the management who are concerned by the same given that this is a new trend that has not been witnessed in the past and may indicate a deeper human resource management problem that should be resolved before the brand loses its good reputation. The report seeks to unearth the underlying HRM problems if they do exist and propose solutions to the problems. 1.1 Background
Virgin Air is part of the Virgin Group of companies started by Sir Richard Branson under the Virgin brand, which is a popular global brand that is associated with values such as being innovative, prioritizing fun in all they do and above all putting their employees and clients first in everything they do (Virgin Atlantic., 2014). Therefore, the airline and the whole group of companies have thrived on their excellent customer service reputation in the extremely competitive airline industry and the events being reported of poor customer service must be investigated. Virgin Air is aware that any damage to its reputation as an airline that addresses and anticipates all the needs of its customers and attends to them promptly would cause irreparable damage to the airline and the brand in general, which is not acceptable. 1.2 What is the virgin issue?
The Virgin issue is that the whole group of Virgin companies is built on its endearing brand image and any issues that threaten the brand image do not just threaten Virgin Air, but rather such issues threaten the survival of the brand and all its affiliated companies. Therefore, this is not merely a human resource issues or a customer service issue, but it is a crucial issue about the future of the whole Virgin brand and should be treated with a lot of significance. It is also important to mention that the founder of the Virgin brand, Sir Richard Branson cannot allow such incidents to occur, not forgetting the Group CEO and the CEO of Virgin Air. 1.3 The purpose of the report
The main purpose of this report is to investigate the reported complaints about customer service so as to ascertain their validity, after which the report shall try to analyze whether these were isolated incidents or there is an emerging trend that needs to be stopped. If it is clear to the consultants that there is a deeper issue, which should be addressed, then the report shall provide appropriate recommendation on what steps the company should take to correct the problems. The report shall mainly focus on whether the problems identified relate to human resource management and advice the executive board and the HR director accordingly.
To what Extent does Virgin’s HR Management Support good Customer Service?
Virgin’s HR is built on the vision that happy employees will result in happy customers, which is what Richard Branson has always championed in all his companies and the group ensures that all their employees understand their customer service culture thoroughly. The HR culture at Virgin is visible through all its employees who go through a thorough recruitment process where the interviewers seek to hire only those employees who demonstrate that they have the personality traits that would fit in with Virgin’s culture. The recruitment process is where the company weeds out all those people who do not have the same values championed by the company and its founder Sir Richard Branson. 2.1 How does virgin’s HRM Support good customer service?
Another critical way in which Virgin’s HR supports good customer service is by engaging in constant conversation with its employees, especially customer-facing people who deliver the airline’s main product, which is excellent customer service. The HR department is always in direct constant contact with its call center where customers can report any complaints of inadequate or poor service as well as with its cabin crews and airports. Another important function of the HR department at Virgin Air is that it reports directly to the CEO and is directly involved in setting strategies at the company, which ensures that only the best HR practices in line with the company’s culture are implemented. 2.2 Academic theory might change HRM?
I do not believe that academic theories might change HRM at Virgin given that just as Sir Richard says, he has never read a HR book and that all the HR practices that he champions at Virgin are based on values that he believes define his company. I strongly think that no academic theories can change HRM at Virgin, but they can definitely help the company improve some of its HR practices given the depth of the HR function within Virgin. Academic theories can be vital in streamlining Virgin’s values and vision to adapt to the global aviation industry and the new challenges brought on by globalization. The increasing competition within the airline industry and the tough economic times can be handled through correct application of some academic theories. 2.2.1 Maslow can be useful & analysis
Maslow’s theory of human motivation based on his hierarchy of human needs can help Virgin motivate its staff in the right way to offer the best customer service in the industry by addressing all their needs as identified in the hierarchy (CoW, 2014; Schneider, 2004). The different people employed at Virgin have different needs that should all be addressed by the leaders in order for them to deliver excellent customer service. People with physiological and safety needs should be paid enough, given incentives and provided with a safe working environment (Methot, 2010; Tzafrir, & Gur, 2007). Employees who have belonging and self-esteem needs should be recognized, given responsibilities and should be involved in the decision-making process, especially for decision directly related to their work. Employees with self-actualization needs should be given interesting and challenging work, and should be offered training opportunities.
2.2.2 Taylor theory of management analysis
Taylor’s theory of scientific management was based on the principle that both workers and managers needed to relate well, which was unheard of at a time where managers rarely interacted with the workers under them (Mind Tools, 2014; Ueno,. 2012). Some of the core principles of his theory included matching the skills, capabilities, and motivations of workers to their jobs, using scientific methods to develop the most efficient ways of accomplishing tasks, monitoring the performance of workers on their jobs and instructing them on where they went wrong, and allocating work between workers and managers (Di Mascio, 2010, p.65). However, Taylor’s theory does not advocate for individual responsibility (Towler, Lezotte, & Burke, 2011, p.401). 2.3 How successful these theory on Virgin’s HRM?
Taylor’s theory is applicable to Virgin Air in the sense that it advocates for the matching of employees skills and abilities to their jobs, which is an important aspect of Virgin’s HRM strategy and has been crucial to the success of the airline. Maslow’s theory is relevant to Virgin as it advocates for the addressing of all the needs of employees, which is also part of Virgin’s HR policy as they always engage with their employees where they listen to the views of the employees and act on their suggestions.
HR Strategy
Virgin’s HR strategy focuses on finding the right employees with the relevant skills and above all the right spirit and personality that is in harmony with Virgin’s values of excellent customer service and innovation (Lebard, Rendleman, & Dolan, 2014). During recruitment, the right candidates are identified and then they undergo extensive training to learn Virgin’s culture and their role in perpetuating the culture. Once the recruits have been trained they join Virgin’s team, but the training never stops. 3.1 HRM & Virgin leadership forecast some improvements on the HR Management.
Virgin’s executive team acknowledges that more needs to be done so as to bring the standards of their customer services to match the brand image that promises excellent customer service to all customers (HC Online, 2003). Virgin’s leadership promises to improve on its overall leadership strategy in terms of leadership truism and more so in the leadership of the customer services department to prevent any further incidents of poor customer service. 3.1.1 Leadership of truism
Virgin’s leadership wants to adopt a leadership based on truisms such as the fact that the culture of the company is a direct reflection of the value of its leaders, and that the culture of an organization is reflected in the stories told by employees (Petrilli, 2011). These truisms are critical in reshaping the culture at Virgin Air to reflect the overall culture of the Virgin Group. 3.1.2 Leadership of customer services
The leadership of customer services will be given a chance to correct the wrong behaviors of employees within the department within a period of two weeks. The department leader should have identified and removed the employees who caused so much damage to the airline’s image given that their actions not only jeopardize the success of the airline, but that of the entire Virgin Group (Brady, 2012). If the customer service leaders do not take the appropriate measures recommended above, they will be removed and replaced with other more effective managers from within the organization. 3.1.2 Leadership Recommendations
It is my recommendation that Virgin Air’s board examines the conduct of all its top leaders it seems likely that they are not congruent with the values and culture of the Virgin Group. Any leaders who are found to have conducted themselves in a manner opposite to the culture of the group should be immediately removed from their positions and replaced with leaders who have proven that they understand and abide by the values of the Virgin Group (Crush, 2012).
3.2 HRM & Motivation can change customer services track?
I do believe that proper motivation and HRM is the key to implementing successful change within the customer services department at Virgin Air. 3.2.1 Motivation theories analysis
Maslow’s hierarchy of needs is quite appropriate for Virgin Air as all people work to satisfy their needs and these needs are clearly stipulated by Maslow’s theory (CoW, 2014; Bowen, 1986). Frederick Herzberg’s theory is also appropriate as he clarifies that people will only do something in order to gain a benefit or to avoid incurring a loss. These two theories complement themselves in their application to Virgin Air and may lead to significant changes at Virgin Air.
3.2.2 Motivation recommendations
I recommend that Virgin Air should motivate its employees by satisfying all their needs according to Maslow’s theory and to ensure that their work with the airline results in the employees benefitting according to Herzberg’s theory. The airline should also adopt the general Virgin Group motivation strategies in their motivation programs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, I have found that the incidents of poor customer service at Virgin Air were not isolated and that the leadership was culpable in the emerging negative trends as reports by customers had indicated. Therefore, I have recommended that the leaders in charge of customer service be censured and given a chance to correct his mistakes or be removed from his position. I have also made recommendations on how the company can implement change throughout its ranks moving forward from this point. The airline should implement my recommendation for there to be lasting change in the organization and to save the brand image from irreparable damage by customer service agents.
References
Bowen, D. E. 1986, Managing Customers as Human Resources in Service Organizations. Human Resource Management. 25(3), 371-383.
Schneider, B. 2004, Welcome to the world of services management. Academy of Management Executive. 18(2), 144-150.
Towler, A., Lezotte, D. V., & Burke, M. J. 2011, ‘The service climate-firm performance chain: The role of customer retention. Human Resource Management, Vol. 50(3), 391-406.
Tzafrir, S. S. & Gur, A. B. A. 2007, HRM Practices and Perceived Service Quality: The Role of Trust as a Mediator. Research & Practice in Human Resource Management. 15(2), 1-16.
Ueno, A. 2012, Which HRM practices contribute to service culture? Total Quality Management & Business Excellence. 23(11/12), 1227-1239.
•Review this Module’s Learning Resources. Select four leadership theories for this Assignment. Search for additional peer-reviewed scholarly resources about your selected leadership theories. You should use both the articles in the Learning Resources and additional scholarly resources to develop your analysis. You must use proper paraphrasing techniques when completing your analysis. Avoid using direct quotes by paraphrasing as appropriate. Include proper APA citations. Submit your paper through Turnitin and Grammarly, and include your Grammarly results with your paper submission
•A 1-page taxonomy that follows the Leadership Theory Taxonomy Template available in this Module’s Learning Resources to the Assignment Part 1 – Module 2 link.
•A 4- to 6-page (not including cover page or references) Leadership Theory Taxonomy paper that explains in detail each theory listed in the taxonomy, by synthesizing multiple scholarly references and examples. This paper will be submitted to the Assignment Part 2 Turnitin – Module 2 link. Be sure to include the following in your paper:
•Five peer-reviewed scholarly resources in addition to those offered by the Learning Resources
•Specific examples of two of the four theories drawn from personal experiences or scholarly literature
Description: It is based on the assumption that all good leaders have a specific set of personal characteristics or personality traits that make them good leaders. However, Stogdill concluded that the traits that one was born with were not the only requirement for good leadership, but rather that these traits must be relevant to the particular leadership situation for one to be an effective leader.
Behavioral theory (1940s-1950s)
Author: Kurt Levin
Years: 1939-1940s
Description: a framework for classification of leaders based on their actions, which divided leaders into three groups; these groups consisted of autocratic leaders, democratic leaders and laissez-faire leaders.
Contingency or situational theories (1960s)
Hersey-Blanchard Situational Leadership Theory
Author: Paul Hersey and Ken Blanchard
Years: 1970s
Description: It is based on four leadership styles that correspond to the four maturity levels of those being led.
Power and influence theories
French and Raven’s five forms of power
Authors: John French, Bertram Raven
Year: 1959
Description: clearly articulates the five forms of power that leaders execute, which are legitimate, coercive, reward, referent and expert power.
We can write this or a similar paper for you! Simply fill the order form!
